If you want to set up an online presence without using a server or having to employ technical staff to maintain it, then Microsoft’s Office Live is one option. It’s a hosted service, and all you need to use it is a computer and an internet connection.
For the basic free Microsoft Office Live package you can get a company domain name, 25 business email accounts and a 500mb website. There are two other packages, which range in price from around £12-25 pounds a month. These include added features and more storage space.
Having your own website and company email addresses can give your business a more professional look. Many of these features come as part of a business ISP package, however if you decide to switch to another company you may have to buy your domain name or lose it altogether. The Office Live option can be used with whichever ISP you are signed up with.
If you decide to set up the basic account, you will get a domain name and site hosting for free. If you already have a domain name it is still possible for Microsoft to host it for you. This is called domain redelegation. However, if you decide to upscale, you may run into some difficulties in transferring the domain name from Office Live to another host, so you’ll need to think your long-term online strategy through before choosing this option.
For more information on Office Live visit http://www.officelive.co.uk/